Mammoth Cave National Park in Kentucky boasts a specific claim to fame: it's
the world's longest known cave system. Containing more than 390 explored miles,
early cave guide Stephen Bishop called it a "grand, gloomy and
peculiar place."

Twenty years ago, I visited this amazing labyrinth. An adventurous person by
nature, I signed up to experience a cave excursion first hand.

The morning dawned crisp as our huddled group awaited to descend into that
strange and wonderful world. The tour guide greeted us, counted heads, and
our adventure began. With great care we descended 250 feet below the earth’s
surface on steep steps through narrow crevices.

Talk about creepy!

Our leg muscles shook from overexertion as we reached the bottom of the cave.
The ground leveled off and we found ourselves in a large, cavernous space lit
by electricity. Once the tour guide ensured everyone had descended safely—and
after issuing the proper warning—he turned off the lights.

Few words can adequately describe the absolute blackness that engulfed us.

The thick, oppressive darkness felt as if it was literally pressing in on me.
My chest felt heavy. My breathing came in short gasps. I blinked my eyes
frantically. I put my palm in front of my face, but couldn't see it.

I began to panic and stretching out my arms into the darkness. I needed
assurance that I wasn't alone.

The tour guide continuously spoke to us in low, smooth tones to remind us of
his presence. After a few minutes when our eyes adjusted to the absence of
light, he struck a solitary match.

The effect was astounding.

We could clearly see every person in our group and the cave walls and
ceiling. The small light had completely expelled the cavernous darkness.

That experience left an indelible impression on me. It illustrated far better
than words where the blackness of sin would have taken mankind had Jesus not
freely offered His light in the place of our darkness.

We may panic when dark seasons occur, but God's soothing
voice speaks volumes of comfort and assurance to us through His Word:

"The Lord himself
goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you
nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” Deuteronomy 31:8

If you are walking in a dark season, lean in and trust God. You may be shaking
from overexertion. Your chest may feel heavy. Take a deep breath and
listen for His gentle whispers reminding you of His presence.

The Lord himself will be your light. The only light Who can expel
that darkness completely.

Donna loves blogging about faith-based issues on her blog
Hydrated Living. You can also read more at Artesian Ministries
She’s also on Facebook at “Donna Pyle” and “Artesian Ministries”. Donna has authored 18
Bible studies, and published several shorter Bible studies and magazine
articles. In November 2011, she released her first DVD-based Bible
study series, "Your Strong Suit", based
on the armor of God. (I just completed
the “Your Strong Suit” Bible study and learned so much! I highly recommend it.)

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About the Nebraska Family Times

The Nebraska Family Times is a monthly pro-family, pro-life newspaper. We cover local, state, and national news and events from a Christian point of view. We feature articles by local and nationally known authors, who write about topics ranging from home organization to family life to spiritual life. The Nebraska Family Times also features book and CD reviews as well as news about upcoming Christian events.
For a FREE sample issue of the Nebraska Family Times, e-maail shelly@shellyburke.net

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Editor Shelly Burke and her kids, Cody and Morgan

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I'm also blogging at "Home is Where the Mom Is; A Christian Mom's Guide"

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"Nebraska Family Times" Faith Statement and Mission Statement

Faith Statement

We believe in the Triune God; Father, Son and Holy Spirit, three in one. We believe that the Bible is the Word of God, given by God without error. God the Holy Spirit inspired His chosen writers to write the different books of the Bible. We believe that Jesus came to earth as true God and true man, suffered and died for our sins and rose again, ascended into heaven and now sits at the right hand of God. We believe that we have forgiveness of sins and salvation through the Holy Spirit, Who creates faith in us. We are saved only by Grace--God's undeserved love for us--not by anything we can do. Because we are saved we will spend eternity in heaven with the Lord! As Christians, we are given the Great Commission of bringing others to know God's truth so that they, too, may receive salvation and live eternally in heaven.

Mission Statement

The mission of the Nebraska Family Times is to inspire, encourage and motivate readers in their Christian walk.

We inspire readers to share their faith within their sphere of influence—family, congregation, workplace, and ultimately, the world.

We encourage readers as they go through the ups and downs of Christian life, the good times and the difficult times.

We motivate readers to deepen their own personal faith and integrate Christian values into every aspect of their lives.

From a wide range of unique sources we choose articles that reflect the Christian faith. Articles are written by local, state and nationally known authors and cover a wide range of topics including Bible study, personal and family devotions, news from a Christian point of view, and all aspects of Christian living.

Our goal is to print articles that will make readers take action in some way—whether to strengthen their faith, share a message with others, or think about something in a new way.